Koyo Kouoh has been named the new executive director and chief curator of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, South Africa. Kouoh, who previously worked as an independent curator, will start in her new position on May 6.

In a statement, Kouoh said, “I am thrilled to be joining Zeitz MOCAA in an executive and curatorial capacity at this crucial time in the museum’s development. It is an unprecedented opportunity to create a strong home for the production, exhibition, discussion and collection of contemporary art in Africa.”

The Zeitz Museum opened in 2017 to acclaim both in Africa and beyond. Kouoh joins the institution after serving as the founding artistic director of RAW Material Company in Dakar, Senegal, and as the curator of the education program for London’s 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.

The appointment comes following a somewhat tumultuous time at the museum. Zeitz MOCAA’s inaugural director, Mark Coetzee, resigned after an inquiry into his “professional conduct” was initiated by museum trustees. Azu Nwagbogu took the role of acting chief curator in May 2018; a release said he will continue at the museum until Kouoh steps into her new role.